MORRIS CREEK TRAIL WAS HEAVILY DAMAGED DURING A NOV. 2006 FLOOD AND IS CURRENTLY WASHED OUT AT ITS BEGINNING AND AT ½ MILE UP THE CREEK.  WE DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS HIKE UNTIL TRAIL MAINTENANCE CAN BE CONDUCTED.

As an alternative until trail re-construction can take place, consider walking further along the closed road and exploring Lightning Creek.

The trail along Morris Creek provides a lovely walk in the woods, with a moderate elevation gain and occasional glimpses of the peaks towering above.  The trail keeps to the north side of the creek, crossing a couple of seasonal side stream, switch backing occasionally and providing some cool relief from the summer sun.  At about 2.5 miles, the trail crosses the main stem of Morris Creek and then switchbacks up the south side of the valley, through old growth Cedar and Hemlock, with mosses in the under story.  This creek crossing can be difficult to impossible unless the water level is low, such as in July and August.  This is a lovely out and back hike that requires no specific turnaround – it can be as long or short as you would like.

The Forest Service has closed Lightning Creek Road at about the 4-½ mile mark, due to severe flood damage.  This closure adds about 1-¼ miles (one way) to a hike up Morris Creek.

If you go:  Bring good boots or trail shoes, water, snacks or lunch.  Layers of extra clothing and rain gear are always advisable in the mountains. A guide to native plants could make this a very interesting trip.

Driving Directions to the Trailhead:  Take Highway 200 (east from Sandpoint) to Clark Fork.  Turn north at the Chevron Station and follow Lightning Creek Road 419.  Drive to the Forest Service Closure sign at about 4.5 miles and start there.  Road walk the first 1 ¼ to the trailhead.  (The trail is not well marked, but is on the north side of Morris Creek at a small turnout. There is a small sign marker with the number #132 on it. You will know you are crossing Morris Creek as you walk over the first bridge you come to.)